Should I visit both parks?

They complement each other well: Tarangire for elephants and baobabs, Manyara for forest, birds and possible tree-climbing lions. Many itineraries include both.

When are Tarangire's elephant herds biggest?

During the dry season from June to October, when animals concentrate around the permanent Tarangire River.

Are the tree-climbing lions guaranteed?

No, sightings are a matter of luck, but Lake Manyara and Tarangire are two of the best places in Africa to see the behaviour.

How far are the parks from Arusha?

Tarangire is roughly two hours by road and Lake Manyara about two and a half, making them easy first or last stops on a circuit.

Destination guide

Lake Manyara & Tarangire

Baobab plains, giant elephant herds and tree-climbing lions

How to get there

Getting to Lake Manyara & Tarangire

However you're arriving — from overseas, from another part of Tanzania, or just moving around once you're here.

Flying in from abroad

International visitors

Fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) near Arusha, the main gateway to the northern circuit.

From elsewhere in Tanzania

Upcountry & other cities

Light aircraft serve Lake Manyara Airport from Arusha and the Serengeti, and most visitors drive from Arusha, reaching Tarangire in about two hours and Manyara in around two and a half.

Getting around locally

Once you're in the region

Access within the parks is by 4x4 safari vehicle; the gateway village of Mto wa Mbu is served by daladalas and taxis.

Want the door-to-door leg handled? Travel with a driver who knows the roads.

Book a driver